Temporal evolution of litterfall and potential bio-element return in a successional forest sequence of the Espinal Ecoregion, Argentina

Abstract

Aim of study: The aim of this work was to assess the litterfall contribution and the return of bioelements of a successional forest sequence from the Mesopotamian Espinal (Argentina) which was associated with livestock production.

Area of study: Mesopotamian Espinal, Argentina.

Material and methods: Litterfall samples were taken and a chemical characterization of their fractions was determined in three stages: a) in the initial successional stage (IF); b) in an intermediate secondary forest (SF); and c) in a mature forest (MF).

Main results: The litterfall contribution of the three forests was 1140 ±98, 2947 ±154, and 2911 ±57 kg DM ha-1 yr-1; respectively. The IF showed a seasonal pattern of contribution with a peak occurring during summer (528 ±85 kg DM ha-1 yr-1), then decreasing during autumn, winter, and spring (241 ±30, 165 ±27, and 207 ±29 kg DM ha-1 season-1,respectively). The SF showed a rather constant seasonal pattern (about 750 kg DM season-1). The MF showed significant differences among seasons, the maximum and minimum contributions ranging between 846 ±29 and 598 ±33 kg DM ha-1 season-1 in summer and spring, respectively. The litterfall leaves/branch ratio decreased as ecological succession advanced, being lower as the forest gets more mature. As a consequence, this ratio can be used as an indicator of maturity in the sequence. The potential return of bio-elements of the successional forest sequence was proportional to the litterfall input, with a maximum amount of N in the Fabaceae species.

Research highlights: The litterfall assessment and the leaves/branch ratio allowed the characterization of the successional stages in Xerophytic forest used for livestock production.

Aceñolaza PG, Zamboni LP, Rodríguez EE and Gallardo JF, 2010. Litterfall production in forests located at the Pre-delta area of the Paraná River (Argentina).Ann For Sci 67: 311-320. http://dx.doi.org/10.1051/forest/2009117